Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suspension to run full term as Senate adjourns till September 2025, leaving the embattled senator sidelined despite legal challenge

The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suspension will run its full course as the Nigerian Senate adjourns plenary till 23 September 2025 for its annual recess.

Also read: INEC rejects petition to recall Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The embattled Kogi senator, who was suspended on 6 March 2025 for six months over alleged misconduct, had attempted to return to the Senate chamber this week but was blocked.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension stemmed from a row during plenary on 20 February, when she rejected a change to her designated seat. Following an investigation, the Senate Committee on Ethics found her guilty of insubordination.

Although her suspension was initially due to end on 6 September, the Senate recess now means she will remain sidelined until plenary resumes.

Speaking after her failed attempt to re-enter the chamber, Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “Even the suspension ab initio was fraudulent—the document was faulty.” She added that her legal team would approach the appellate court for redress.

She also criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of exceeding his authority.

The Senate had warned that the suspension might be reviewed if she issued a formal apology, which has yet to happen.

Announcing the recess, Akpabio explained it was part of “chamber reciprocity” since the House of Representatives had already proceeded on break.

He noted, “All necessary committees—the diaspora committee, committee on reparation, committee on interior—this is the best time for you to undertake visits to prisons and all that.”

He urged lawmakers to conduct oversight visits and prepare reports ahead of resumption.

In a related development, Akpoti-Uduaghan was reportedly delayed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport while attempting to travel to the United Kingdom.

According to a family source, immigration officers said she had been placed on a watch list at the instance of the National Assembly leadership.

Eyewitnesses said she appeared distressed but was eventually cleared to board after several phone calls.

Confirming the incident just before takeoff, she stated, “The aircraft is about to take off.”

Also read: Lawyer Urges Senate to Obey Court Order Reinstating Akpoti-Uduaghan

Despite the setback, the Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suspension has intensified public debate over legislative discipline and individual rights within the National Assembly.